December 27, 2009
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Christmases Past….Roots and Traditions
Spent some time perusing family photo albums
in recent days and reminded how Often at this time of year we may become nostalgic, and reminisces with some “remember whens” and “ what ifs” on the “good old days”. These stories shared may be through rose colored glasses, because the “good old days” may not been as happy or stress free as we would like them to be BUT still there is value in considering Roots and Traditions. When working with engaged couples, often ask them to recount what they have learned from their upbringing, what do they appreciate about the families that raised them, what tradition or values do they bring in to the new relationship, which ones are let go and what, if any, different choices are being made?
Even childhoods in difficult or dysfunctional families, there have been learnings.. Perhaps to be independent or hardworking or a close relationship with a grandmother or older sister who acted in the mother role or empathy now to other children in the same situation or in choice of our careers?
In fairly stable, loving families how recently have you told those around you what you appreciate about them or time or lessons shared with you?
Looking in the rear view mirror before charging forward always has some value and year-end is a good time to include that in our personal reviews.
So here are some of my own….
From my mother’s album that she put together for me and each of my siblings
.At exactly 6 months.. 
..my first Christmas. Note the wooden convertible high chair 
the Christmas tree held much fascination and so did the new teddy bear 
After the bath and ready for bed..
..I still may have that wicker rocker. Our parents were both university students, building a house in west end of Edmonton, so we lived upstairs from my grandparent’s house when Don and I were preschoolers. Probably spring and at age 4 I was told to watch my toddler brother
but hid here on him behind the tree. 
Christmas in the 50’s with my great grandmother holding my younger baby sister and toddler brother. 
Fond memories of her, a small lady just under 5 feet and would take her hair out of her bun and let me brush on her back...I was amazed! Originally it was bright red.
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